CATALONIA'S government is on the verge of being sacked after the Spanish prime minister requested special powers to impose direct rule and remove its regional authority.

Mariano Rajoy needs the permission of Spain's parliament to exercise the legal measures which he wants to use to curb the region's power, dissolve the government, and call a national election within six months.

If approved, Mr Rajoy said his actions would restore the law, make sure regional institutions were neutral, and guarantee public services and economic activity as well as preserve the civil rights of all citizens.

The constitutional powers have never been used before and is an attempt to stop Catalonia from breaking away.

Mr Rajoy, who unveiled the plans after a meeting of his cabinet, will gain popular approval for his actions if he wins the proposed election.